Iflaviridae

Iflaviridae is a family of positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses. The name "Iflaviridae" is derived from "Insects," "Flaviviruses," and the "-idae" suffix indicating a taxonomic family. These viruses are known to infect arthropods. Currently, the family comprises a single genus, Iflavirus, which includes several important insect pathogens.

The genome of iflaviruses is a single RNA molecule that serves as both the genetic material and messenger RNA. This RNA molecule is translated into a single large polyprotein, which is then cleaved by viral proteases into functional proteins, including structural components and enzymes necessary for replication. The virions are typically enveloped and have an isometric or quasi-isometric shape.

Members of the Iflaviridae family are significant in their impact on insect populations. For example, certain iflaviruses are responsible for diseases affecting honeybees, such as black queen cell virus and deformed wing virus, which can have substantial economic consequences for beekeeping. Other iflaviruses infect a variety of other insect species, including mosquitoes and fruit flies, and are studied for their roles in insect biology and as potential tools for pest control. Research into iflaviruses contributes to our understanding of viral evolution, host-pathogen interactions, and the ecology of insect-borne diseases.